What to consider when buying or re-using Christmas lights?

Philippines -  We are believed to have the longest Christmas season in the world. Aside from “Parols” (lanterns), Christmas lights are one symbol for a Filipino family to signify being one with the celebration. The common practice is to go for the very affordable (super cheap) lights, and some even re-use old lights

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is reminding us again to always consider the products Quality and Safety. Check for the Christmas light’s Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) before making the purchase. The ICC indicates that it has passed safety tests. Let us not take for granted the fact that Christmas lights has been known to have caused several fire incidents in the past years. You do not want to ruin your family’s celebration, right?

Here are some things help you when new lights or re-using old lights.

When re-using old Christmas lights

Be 100% sure all the wires and plugs are intact and functioning properly. If you are planning to connect two or three sets of lights, make sure to test each set individually before connecting them together. This allows you to check issues within individual sets.

When buying new Christmas lights

Check for the ICC sticker - this can be found either on the wire or on the package of the Christmas lights to ensure that the product has passed safety tests. It is also helpful to check the name, address and trademark of the importer or the distributor of the product, for possible complaints.

Even with ICC stickers. Avoid leaving the lights on overnight. Also avoid connecting together, more that three sets of lights. For outdoor lights, make sure plugs are not exposed to being wet in case it rains. The plugs can be covered with plastic or electrical tape to keep water off.

Consider the more efficient LED lights. They are usually more expensive but they consume much lower electricity, heats up slower, and lasts longer hours the conventional lights. According to DTI the conventional lights, with miniature lamps, retails for 129.25 PHP per 100 light (50 watts). While the LED lights costs 499.75 PHP (4 watts).

Miniature and LED Christmas lights

You can check the complete list of DTI-certified Christmas light brands below to give you an idea of what you can/should buy.

Remember - If it is not practical for your budget to buy new and safe lights. Settle on other things you can afford, do not risk your family on substandard Christmas, because they are usually prone to overheating - fire.

source: dti